If your power has ever gone out during a storm, you know how frustrating it can be. Food in the fridge spoils, the house doesn’t have temperature control, and even charging your phone becomes a struggle.

A whole-home generator is one way to ensure you’re never left struggling in the dark. But is it worth the investment? This guide will help you understand the costs, benefits, and factors involved so you can confidently decide if a whole-home generator makes sense for you.

What Is a Whole-House Electric Generator?

A whole-house electric generator is a permanent backup power system installed outside your home that automatically supplies electricity during an outage.

Unlike portable generators, a whole-home generator is directly connected to your electrical system, turns on automatically within seconds of a blackout, and powers essential appliances or even your entire home until utility power is restored.

How Does a Whole-House Generator Work?

A whole-house generator is wired directly into your home’s electrical panel and is connected to a fuel source like natural gas or propane. When your electricity goes out, an automatic transfer switch senses the loss of power and instantly tells the generator to turn on, usually within 10 to 20 seconds.

Your home then seamlessly runs off the generator’s electricity until normal power returns, at which point the switch automatically shifts your home back to the utility grid and turns the generator off.

Key Features To Look for in a Whole-House Generator

When choosing a whole-house generator, some features make a big difference in how well it meets your home’s needs. Keep these key factors in mind:

• Wattage: Wattage is the amount of power the generator provides. More wattage means you can run more appliances and even power your entire home during an outage.
• Fuel type: Most generators run on natural gas or propane. Natural gas is convenient if your home already uses it, while propane is a good choice if natural gas isn’t available.
• Automatic transfer switch: This switch automatically turns the generator on and off during power outages without you needing to do anything.
• Remote monitoring: Remote monitoring lets you check your generator’s status right from your smartphone or computer.

Types of Generators & Which One You Should Choose

There are different types of whole-house generators, each with its own benefits and downsides. Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the best one for your home:

• Gas generators: These run on gasoline, which is easy to find, but they don’t last long in storage. They’re cheaper upfront but not the best for long power outages.
• Diesel generators: Diesel generators are powerful and work well for larger homes; however, they’re louder and require a lot of upkeep.
• Natural gas generators: These run on the natural gas already piped into your home. They’re convenient and reliable as long as you have a natural gas connection.
• Liquid propane: These run on propane, which is stored in tanks. They’re a good choice if you don’t have natural gas in your area, and propane doesn’t go bad over time.

How Much Does a Whole-House Generator Cost?

The cost of a whole-house generator can vary depending on its size and fuel type. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand the pricing in the Washington, D.C., area:

Cost by Size

• Small generators (7–10 kW) can cost between $2,000 and $3,500. They’re good for smaller homes and powering essential appliances.
• Medium generators (10–20 kW) can cost between $3,000 and $6,000 and are suitable for mid-sized homes.
• Large generators (20+ kW) can cost anywhere from $7,000 to $16,000 or more and are ideal for larger homes or homes with higher power needs.

Cost By Fuel Types

• Natural gas generators are generally priced between $2,000 and $6,00; they connect to your home’s existing gas line and eliminate the need for fuel storage.
• Liquid propane generators also range from $2,000 to $6,000. While they burn cleaner and have longer shelf lives, they require a storage tank, adding to the overall cost.
• Diesel generators can be more expensive, ranging from $5,000 to $18,000. They’re known for efficiency and reliability but require manual refueling and regular maintenance.

Whole-House Generator Installation Process

Installing a whole-house generator involves careful planning and expert installation. Here’s a more detailed, step-by-step guide to what’s involved in the process:

1. Permits & Inspections

Before anything can be done, you’ll need to obtain electrical and gas work permits. This typically involves working with your local government to ensure compliance with safety codes. Once the installation is complete, a final inspection will ensure everything is up to standard.

2. Site Preparation

Choosing the right location for your generator is crucial. It must be placed on a solid, level surface, such as a concrete pad or gravel base, and at least 5 feet away from windows, vents, or doors to avoid carbon monoxide buildup. The area should also be clear of any obstacles that could block airflow.

3. Electrical Panel Upgrade

Your home’s electrical panel may need an upgrade to handle the power load from the generator. If your current panel isn’t large enough, a licensed electrician will install a new one to support the generator’s output. This is especially important if you’re powering your entire home, not just essential circuits.

4. Generator Placement & Installation

A professional electrician will install the generator, ensuring it’s securely placed and connected to your home’s electrical panel. The automatic transfer switch will also be installed to manage the power switch during an outage.

5. Fuel Line Installation

If you’re using a natural gas or propane generator, a licensed technician will connect it to your existing fuel line or install a new tank.

6. Testing & Final Inspection

After installation, the generator will be tested to ensure everything works properly. A final inspection will verify that the installation meets safety standards.

Professional Installation vs. DIY

While you can handle smaller, portable generators yourself, whole-house generators require professional safety and code compliance expertise. Hiring a licensed professional ensures the installation is done correctly and your home is protected.

Maintenance Tips for a Long-Lasting Generator

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your whole-house generator runs smoothly for years. Here are a few simple tasks to keep it in top shape:

• Oil changes: To keep the engine running efficiently, change the oil every 100 to 150 hours of use or at least once a year, whichever comes first.
• Battery checks: Inspect the battery regularly to ensure it’s in good condition. Replace it every two to three years to avoid issues during an outage.
• Preventative service: Schedule annual professional maintenance to check the entire system, including the fuel lines, exhaust, and transfer switch. This helps catch any problems early and ensures the generator is always ready to go.

How To Choose the Best Whole-House Generator for Your Home

Choosing the best whole-house generator for your home involves considering several key factors to ensure it meets your needs and fits your lifestyle. Here’s what to keep in mind when selecting the right generator:

Home Size

Larger homes with more appliances will need a generator with a higher wattage to ensure everything stays powered during an outage.

Power Needs

Consider which appliances and systems are essential for you to keep running. List the most important items, like your HVAC system, fridge, and lights, and choose a generator that can handle those needs.

Budget

Generator costs can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands. Set a budget that works for you and consider installation, maintenance, and fuel costs as part of your overall expenses.

Fuel Type

Consider the fuel types available to you, such as natural gas, propane, or diesel. Your choice will depend on what’s most convenient, reliable, and cost-effective in your area.

Local Climate Considerations

Washington, D.C., experiences a mix of hot summers and cold winters, so your generator should be able to handle both high and low temperatures. Summer and winter storms often cause power outages, so it’s important to choose a generator that can run efficiently during extreme heat or cold.

Natural gas generators are usually a good choice in this area since they can provide reliable power during extended outages and don’t require frequent refueling.

Install a Standby Generator With UAT

When you choose United Air Temp to install your standby generator, you’re choosing a company that goes above and beyond. Our highly trained technicians bring expertise and experience to every installation, so you can trust that your generator will be installed safely and efficiently.

Want to make sure your home stays powered during an outage? Start by evaluating your power needs and talking to our team to choose the best generator for your home.

We’ll help you pick the right model and handle the installation. Contact us for a free quote and let us provide you with reliable backup power in Washington, D.C.